Year: 1997

Have you ever seen someone in a rage? Have you ever seen someone lose control, fit to be tied? That's an interesting phrase – fit to be tied. It means someone who has lost it, and needs to be restrained, … Read more

"Don't trust in violence". Violence has never proven to be a way to solve problems or re-establish relationships. I was never so ashamed and never so proud to be a Pictonian [Editor's note: citizen of Pictou] as I was the … Read more

Have you ever seen the painting called 'The Last Supper"? Do you know the inside story? One day Leonardo da Vinci became angry with a man while painting this picture. He lashed out with cruel words. When he tried to … Read more

In February 1996, The Presbyterian Record published a game I created to use with children during Family Violence Prevention Week (page 50). It was called Hurters and Helpers. After an energetic game the children are invited to reflect on how … Read more

In Nova Scotia, Canada, February 9-15 is designated as Family Violence Prevention Week, and the churches are instrumental in taking the initiative. In Pictou County, our Fear Not Now Committee has produced excellent resources for the churches. My meditations this … Read more

Before I retired from gainful employment, I used to walk to the university nearly every day, summer and winter. In the winter I found myself intrigued by the rabbit tracks that crossed my path in the snow, particularly in the … Read more

People are always trying to improve my mind by giving me good stuff to read. The latest was a compendium of essays written over the years by C.S. Lewis. I have never read a great deal of Lewis, and never … Read more

She was wheeled through bolted doors, flung open to admit her. Shouting, somewhat incoherent, her presence broke in upon us, taking our attention captive. "That "blankety" Doctor! What does he know? I need a cigarette…. Get this junk out of … Read more

Holy Week. Jesus had just run the gauntlet with the Scribes and Pharisees attempting to entrap him, but Jesus had risen above their pettiness to shine like the sun illuminating God's word in a way no one had ever imagined … Read more

Once upon a time there was a sixteen year old boy who had been given a brand spanking new 1956 Chevrolet for his birthday. He was so proud of that car. He strutted through the halls at his high school … Read more